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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Aurora County
Aurora County handles zoning and land-use permitting. South Dakota has no statewide residential building code mandate for counties; Aurora County appears to focus on zoning-only authority rather than structural code enforcement.
Note: Specific exempt categories are not publicly enumerated; the department advises contacting them directly at 605-942-7164 to determine permit necessity for any project.
- Building code
- South Dakota does not enforce a single statewide building code. Aurora County primarily enforces zoning regulations; incorporated municipalities may adopt their own building codes.
- Contractor requirements
- State registration under SDCL Chapter 36-21C (SD Dept. of Labor and Regulation) required for residential contractors. Electrical and plumbing require state-licensed contractors.
Application process
Typical processing: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
- 01 Contact Aurora County Department of Equalization by phone (605-942-7164) or email (ddoe@auroracountysd.gov) to inquire about permit requirements for your property.
- 02 Submit permit application through the county office at 401 N. Main Street, Aurora County Courthouse, Plankinton, SD 57368.
- 03 Staff will provide guidance on building additions and new construction requirements.
- 04 Pay applicable permit fees.
- 05 Receive issued permit and post on site before construction begins.
- 06 Request inspections as required by permit conditions.
Typical processing time: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 605-942-7164 (phone)
- ddoe@auroracountysd.gov (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Not publicly stated; contact department
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CT
- Time windows
- Not publicly detailed; contact department
Typical sequence: Not publicly detailed; contact department
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Aurora County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Aurora County, SD? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Aurora County, SD? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Aurora County, SD? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Aurora County, SD? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Aurora County Department of Equalization before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.